The IFF Executive Committee will determine whether the film will make the shortlist of contenders ahead of next year’s ceremony.

The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) has picked CJ Obasi’s Mami Wata as the country’s contender for the International Feature Film (IFF) category of the 96th Academy Awards next year.

The black and white film about a West African goddess and her waning influence on a village won the highest number of votes from the 14-member committee.

The NOSC announced in a statement on Sunday, October 15, 2023 that the film was selected for its relevant theme and unique approach to a story of pre and post-colonial African societies. The committee also praised the film for its technical and artistic excellence.

The chairperson of the committee, Stephanie Linus, urged Nigerian filmmakers not to relent in enhancing their skills, and elevating production to global standards.

“I’m excited to announce a milestone in our NOSC journey: our first Pidgin film submission to the Academy, marking our commitment to diversity and global representation,” the veteran actress said.

The IFF Executive Committee will determine whether the film will beat dozens of other films from across the world to the shortlist of contenders at the 96th Oscars ceremony on March 10, 2024.